OK, like most Blazer fans, I'm starting to be concerned.  I understand that the Blazers' offense is a work in progress, what with a new point guard and a returningwing being introduced (Miller & Martell, respectively), along with a major new weapon (Greg Oden's improved low-post game).  But the defensive futility in Houston really threw me.  Could it be that Nic Batum--who models his game after Scotty Pippen's--was important to this team's success last season in a similar manner to Pippen in Chicago?

Of course, Nic is no Scotty--not yet.  Call him a Pippen in progress.  But his game at the defensive end and in the open court is already similar.  Last night, Ariza scored 30 points, I believe.  With Batum shadowing him, I think he would have been lucky to get 20.  In that event, the Blazers win the game and everyone is gaga over Roy going for 41.  Instead, there's endless handwringing over Miller, LMA, etc.